On this afternoon we decided to make a late run toward the northern end of Death Valley to photograph a particular feature. We perhaps got of to a slightly late start, but the light was still interesting as we approached. Nearby there is an area of very dark soil (which I assume may have volcanic origins) with very sparse plants. I’ve tried to photograph it before but with limited success. There was lovely cloud-dappled side light when we passed so we stopped to photograph.
The plan was for a brief stop before continuing to our planned destination while the light was good. But “the best laid plans” and all of that… Once I wandered into this spare landscape I found more and more interesting things to photograph — the plants on the rolling hills, tiny wildflowers just poking up through the soil, small playa-like areas of dried mud, and more. Before long we noticed the sun dropping behind nearby mountains… and by the time we got to our planned destination the light was fading.
Leave a comment or question using the form. (Click the title to see the full article and to comment if you are viewing it on the home page.)
G Dan Mitchell is a California photographer and visual opportunist. His book, “California’s Fall Color: A Photographer’s Guide to Autumn in the Sierra” (Heyday Books) is available directly from him. Blog | Bluesky | Mastodon | Substack Notes | Flickr | Email
All media © Copyright G Dan Mitchell and others.
